On behalf of the Sister City Partnership Committee, I wish to thank everyone who made the students' visit such a huge success. Both high schools welcomed the Germans into their classrooms to experience our American education system firsthand. Our mayor and city administration did an excellent job of acquainting the visitors with the workings of our city government.

Local artist Gary Lucy demonstrated his art to our visitors in an appealing manner, and was well received. The students visit to the Washington Historical Society Museum, conducted by members of the society, broadened the visitors' view of our city and its history. The YMCA accorded the German visitors use of the YMCA facility during the duration of the exchange visit.

The Washington Fire Department, which has a long-standing relationship with the Marbach volunteer firemen, hosted a delightful farewell dinner for the visitors and host families at the Main Fire Station, and at the conclusion, demonstrated fire equipment and gave the students rides on the extension ladder truck. This was much appreciated by all.

However, our most profound thanks go to the families from the Washington area who hosted the German visitors. These families welcomed strangers into their homes and insured the students' visit was interesting and enjoyable. We are truly grateful for all the host families' efforts.

We know that our Washington students are looking forward to their exchange visit to Marbach this June. We wish them well.